After years of goading fans with promises to ‘open soon’ the casino of Grand Theft Auto‘s virtual world finally flung open its doors in 2019, the Diamond Casino & Resort—located in the game’s downtown Vinewood area—enabling players to finally lay their eyes on what lay behind the hype; and causing somewhat of a stir within the games industry and beyond. Its players are allowed to buy in-game ‘dollars’ with real money, and convert them to gambling chips without the ability of turning them back into cash. It’s one-way traffic for the Diamond, but don’t you know: the casino always wins.
The GTA Online Virtual Casino
In GTA Online, the virtual casino floor offers players a wide range of exciting gambling activities. Players can use in-game chips to participate in classic casino games like roulette, blackjack, and poker. The adrenaline rush of trying one’s luck against the house to potentially win big is a major draw for many players within the game.
For those who prefer slot machines, the casino floor features a variety of themed slot games, each with its own unique designs and rewards. Additionally, virtual horse races allow players to experience the thrill of betting on digital horse races and cheering for their chosen steed to come out on top.
However, not all players are interested in gambling, and GTA Online offers an array of alternative ways to spend in-game chips. For instance, players can embark on missions related to the game’s storyline or engage in various side activities to earn rewards and enhance their gaming experience.
Collectibles like GTA Online serial killer clues, peyote plants, and action figures are scattered throughout the game world, encouraging players to explore every nook and cranny to uncover hidden secrets.
Moreover, players can spend their hard-earned chips on various items and services, including GTA Online casino cars and the luxurious casino Penthouse. The Penthouse, in particular, offers players a taste of high-class living with access to exclusive amenities and views of the virtual Los Santos skyline.
In addition to the casino-related content, players can find challenges like the Lucky Wheel glitch and Inside Track glitch, where they can potentially gain extra rewards or in-game currency through certain exploits. These glitches and exploits, however, are subject to changes and updates by the game developers to maintain a fair and balanced gaming environment.
Furthermore, Twitch Prime members often enjoy special rewards and bonuses, adding an extra layer of incentive for players to engage with the game regularly.
GTA Online continually evolves and introduces new content, events, and activities to keep players engaged and entertained. Whether players prefer the thrill of gambling on the casino floor, chasing collectibles and rewards, or enjoying other aspects of the game, GTA Online offers a dynamic and immersive virtual world for players to explore and enjoy.
It’s essential to remember that these activities are part of the fictional gaming experience in GTA Online and do not involve real-world gambling or monetary rewards. Players should always approach gaming responsibly and in accordance with the age restrictions and guidelines set by the game’s developers and relevant authorities. Those looking for something more serious could think about a physical casino experience, a NZ online casino for real money, or similar online gaming outlets in their location.
GTA’s Diamond Casino & Resort
On arrival, players will receive the option to purchase a Standard Membership from the Guest Services desk for GTA$500 (including a welcome gift of 5,000 Chips), with additional chips available at the Cashier Services booth on the casino floor. At the moment, GTA Online casino chips are acquired by exchanging GTA$ with the cashier at a rate of 1 chip = GTA$1 capped at a maximum of 20,000 chips per in-game day; 48 minutes in real time.
Fake money? Real money? The boundaries are blurred. Purchase a Penthouse located within the sprawling entertainment complex and watch how your status becomes VIP, and with it the ability to exchange up to 50,000 chips per in-game day and access to special amenities such as complimentary Valet, Champagne, and Limousine Services; as well as Aircraft Concierge and access to High Limit tables and VIP Lounges at the casino. Play at Americancasinoguide.com or play at the Diamond, the money may be different but the rush is the same; especially with the added chaos that GTA is infamous for.
Gaming Restrictions
There are some restrictions in place: the game is rated for ages 18 and over, and whilst some players have commented that they’re able to walk around the casino area, the gambling tables were blocked in their country if gambling is illegal or highly legislated. Meanwhile, some gamers are shocked that Rockstar have finally—after half a decade of teasing—decided to pursue the move of enabling real money to be spent on gambling chips, others are thrilled with the update which also contains new missions, stories and vehicles; all centred around the Diamond Casino & Resort.
As the UK gambling watchdog does not oversee the purchase of in-game content—a prize having to be either money or holding monetary value in order for it to fall under gambling legislation—it’s difficult to for regulators to assess its impact, however the fact that GTA items are tied to a player’s account, meaning it’s all the more difficult to sell them, makes some gamers uncomfortable. (New Zealand players should check online casino real money nz, for those in South Africa, Yebo casino is a good place to start.)
A place to let go of your inhibitions, your doubts, your sense of proportion, and certainly your credit rating, the hype surrounding the Diamond Casino & Resort did not do this place justice. Welcome to The Diamond. Welcome to a world where GTA$ can be purchased for real money. Welcome to a casino that’s not actually a casino. Welcome to the future.
Can I Use Online Casinos in My Country?
Many countries had varying degrees of restrictions on online gambling. It’s important to note that the legal status of online gambling can change over time due to shifts in legislation and governmental policies. Additionally, some countries might allow certain forms of online gambling while restricting others. Here are some examples of countries with notable online gambling restrictions:
United States: Online gambling laws in the United States are complex and can vary from state to state. While some states have legalized and regulated online casinos and sports betting, others have strict prohibitions or restrictions on online gambling activities.
China: China has strict laws against online gambling, and it is illegal for Chinese citizens to participate in most forms of online gambling. The Chinese government actively enforces these restrictions, and penalties for violating the laws can be severe.
Russia: Online gambling in Russia is heavily restricted, with the government maintaining a blacklist of websites that are blocked within the country. Some forms of online gambling, such as sports betting, are allowed in certain regions with proper licensing.
United Arab Emirates: Online gambling is illegal in the United Arab Emirates, and the government actively blocks access to gambling websites.
Turkey: Turkey has strict regulations against online gambling, and the government actively blocks access to many gambling websites.
Singapore: Online gambling is heavily restricted in Singapore, with the exception of a few government-approved sites. The government actively enforces these restrictions, and individuals caught gambling on unlicensed sites can face significant fines and penalties.
Australia: The Australian government has passed laws to prohibit online casinos and poker sites from operating within the country. However, sports betting and lottery games are allowed under certain regulations.
India: Online gambling laws in India vary by state, with some states having stricter regulations than others. While some forms of gambling are legal in certain states, others have implemented blanket bans on online gambling.
Brazil: Online gambling was prohibited in Brazil, but there were discussions about potential legalization and regulation at the time of my last update.
These examples highlight the diversity of online gambling regulations worldwide. Before engaging in online gambling in any country, it is essential to research and understand the specific laws and regulations governing online gambling activities in that particular region. Always ensure you are complying with local laws and regulations to avoid legal consequences. Additionally, because the legal landscape can change, it’s best to consult official sources or legal experts for the most up-to-date information on online gambling restrictions in specific countries.
Can I Use Online Casinos in New Zealand?
Online casinos were not legally allowed to operate within the borders of New Zealand. This means that domestic companies were not permitted to establish or run online casino platforms targeting New Zealand players. However, the laws and regulations surrounding online gambling can change over time due to evolving social attitudes and governmental policies.
New Zealanders who were interested in gambling online had the option to access and play at offshore online casinos. Many international gambling websites welcomed players from New Zealand and offered a wide variety of games, including virtual versions of popular casino classics like roulette, blackjack, poker, and slot machines. Additionally, some platforms offered virtual horse races and other innovative betting opportunities.
For players considering using an online casino real money NZ, it was essential to exercise caution and select reputable and licensed online casinos. Licensed casinos provided a safer and fairer gaming environment, ensuring that players’ interests were protected, and their financial transactions were secure.
While online casinos were an option for those interested in virtual gambling, some individuals preferred the excitement of brick-and-mortar casinos. In this regard, New Zealand had a few land-based casinos in various locations, providing a more traditional and immersive casino experience. These establishments offered a range of games, entertainment, and dining options for visitors to enjoy.
Aside from traditional casino games, some players might have preferred alternative activities available within the popular video game “Grand Theft Auto Online” (GTA Online). This online multiplayer mode featured a virtual casino within the game world, where players could try their luck at various gambling activities. While this was purely for entertainment purposes within the game and not real-world gambling, it provided a simulated casino experience for players seeking something different.
In GTA Online’s virtual casino, players could engage in activities such as trying their luck on the slot machines, playing blackjack, poker, or roulette, and participating in virtual horse races. The game’s developers continuously added new features and opportunities for players to spend their in-game currency on various items and experiences, including purchasing virtual properties, collectibles, and unique in-game rewards.
It’s worth noting that the information provided here is based on the situation as of September 2021, and legal circumstances may have changed since then. If you are considering engaging in online gambling or exploring virtual casino experiences in games like GTA Online, it’s essential to stay informed about the current regulations and consult official sources or legal experts to ensure compliance with local laws in New Zealand.
